"We're putting it across our portfolio of Chevrolets as quickly as we can, because we want to make that technology available to everyone," Barra said at the event in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.

Barra, speaking after executives from Apple and Reddit and before Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky, reiterated a point that she's been touting of late. Largely due to technological innovation, the auto industry is poised for more change in the next five to 10 years than it's seen in the past 50, she said.

Apple's CarPlay and Google's Android Auto enable drivers to access hands-free connected technology like music, navigation and messages. The software will be embedded in Chevy's 2016 models, which start rolling out in the coming months.

It's not just for Cadillacs and other high-end cars. Barra said models costing in the "teens" in terms of thousands of dollars will have the same capabilities.

"For a lot of people that's one of the first things they want, and it's about affordability as well," she said.

Barra said another announcement regarding GM's Opel unit is coming Thursday and more brands will follow.

As for other hot topics in areas where tech and cars collide, Barra said that autonomous vehicles will eventually reach the market, "but it's further out than some people are predicting." She said it will be a "journey" getting there.